Patterns

Patterns are everywhere, and sometimes they show up as repetition of behaviors.  Like when I eat all the Red Vine Licorice that ever makes its way into our house…that’s an overpowering delicious pattern!

From the time Josh rolls out of bed each day, he’s got a program flipping around in his head, containing a ‘how things must be done’ list.  He feels the need to walk a certain way, eat a certain way, brush his teeth in a specific rhythm, and carry out daily responsibilities in the same way – every time.

That sounds like an enormous amount of pressure…and freaking exhausting!

If it sounds weird to you, think about your morning routine. Do you put both socks on and then your shoes, or one sock and shoe, and then do the other? Either way, chances are you do it the same every time, without giving much thought to it.

None of these things are troublesome, until they begin to cause stress and anxiety if the pattern can’t be carried out in the desired way. Josh seems to have a pretty good handle on his repetitive behaviors.  He’s acutely aware of them, and they guide his movements, but he says he’s okay with it.

I’m not gonna argue with what works. Pass the licorice!

Listen to the Podcast: JHA035: The Invisible Things | http://sonyaking.com/jha035-the-invisible-things